Mass "is the one I enjoy the most -- being with God's people at one of our most magnificent parishes," he said.

Dolan, who is known for his sharp wit, charmed parishioners and spoke of their good works in the community. He said he recently was moved to tears during a visit to Staten Island, when a truck full of donated goods from Sacred Heart arrived for victims of Hurricane Sandy.

"And right then, a truck pulled up because you got the word, and it was loaded with practical household items like mops and detergent and baby diapers," Dolan said.

Dolan's visit was particularly important for parishioners such as choir director Susan Herceg, who was baptized and married at Sacred Heart.